Shape-memory alloys: From microstructure to macroscopic properties

Dr. Kaushik Bhattacharya
Division of Engineering and Applied Science
California Institute of Technology


Date:  Monday, April 14, 2003
Time:  3:30 p.m.
Place:  110 Othmer Hall


Shape-memory alloys are interesting materials due to their unusual ability to "remember" a particular shape. This ability arises from the characteristic microstructure that they form. This talk will review the progress that has been made in understanding why these materials form these microstructures, how these microstructures give rise to the macroscopic properties and how one can use this understanding for the development of new materials and applications. Theoretical tools that enable this multi-scale analysis will be described and experimental validation of theory will be discussed.